What is peripheral artery disease?
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a circulatory condition characterized by a narrowing or blockage in your peripheral arteries. Your peripheral arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to your extremities.
The narrowing or blockage occurs from a buildup of plaque along the walls of the blood vessels. This condition is called atherosclerosis.
With peripheral artery disease, your extremities may not get enough oxygen-rich blood, which affects the health and function of these vital body parts. PAD also increases your risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke.
What are the symptoms of peripheral artery disease?
Though PAD may affect any of your peripheral arteries, symptoms most often involve the legs.
The most notable symptom of PAD is claudication, which is muscle pain or cramping in your legs when you walk or climb stairs. With claudication, your symptoms disappear within a few minutes after you stop the activity.
Other symptoms of peripheral artery disease include:
- Leg numbness
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of leg hair
- Slow down in toenail growth
- Change in skin color
- Feeling of coldness in the affected leg
It’s also possible to have PAD and not have any symptoms at all, or only have mild symptoms.
What happens during a peripheral artery disease exam?
University Vascular performs a comprehensive exam to confirm a diagnosis of peripheral artery disease, determine the seriousness of your condition, and develop an effective treatment plan.
During your exam, your provider reviews your symptoms, medical history, and family history. They also perform a physical and examine your legs. They may conduct various tests to measure blood pressure and blood flow in your legs, such as:
- Ankle-brachial index
- Blood test
- Vascular ultrasound
- Angiography
University Vascular is a full-service practice and most tests and treatments are performed at the office.
How is peripheral artery disease treated?
Treatment for PAD focuses on slowing or stopping the progression of your disease and reducing your risk of complications. Your treatment plan may include lifestyle changes, disease-specific medication, or endovascular procedures.
University Vascular is a leader in the field of vascular surgery and stays on top of the latest research and treatments so you get the most advanced care possible.
To learn more about peripheral artery disease, call University Vascular or book an appointment online today.
